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Q: I’m in good health, but this past year I have experienced gas, especially after I drink or
eat. I work with the public, and this has become a problem, not to mention an embarrassment.

I’ve discussed this with my doctor; tried over-the-counter medications; and had a recent
colonoscopy, an upper GI endoscopy and a gastrointestinal endoscopy. None offered an
explanation.

Is there anything else I can do?

A: This is a common concern. What you are experiencing is increased small and large intestinal
gas, which is produced by bacterial fermentation of dietary substrates, specifically
carbohydrates.

Consumption of foods that contain lactose, fructose (especially high-fructose corn syrup) and
wheat cause increased intestinal air. Sorbitol, which is found in sugarless chewing gum, is another
common culprit.

Q: How does sarcoidosis manifest itself? My wife has been diagnosed with it, and we have a hard
time figuring out when and if it shows up.

A: Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease of unknown cause that can affect virtually any part of
the body.

The lungs and lymph nodes in the chest are commonly involved, resulting in symptoms including
cough, shortness of breath and chest pains. Sarcoidosis also can cause vision changes, skin rash,
joint pain, fatigue, weight loss and night sweats.

Given the spectrum of possibilities, it is not surprising that sarcoidosis frequently is
misdiagnosed.

Patients typically have the same type of symptoms with each flare-up. Not all patients require
treatment. However, annual follow-ups with a physician and appropriate testing are recommended.

For more information, visit the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research at www.stopsarcoidosis.org/;
the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute at
www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/sarc/; and Net Wellness at www.netwellness.org/.